Should dust storm debris cause mold concerns?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a persistent cough in both my kids and a strange musty odor in our living room. The ducts are so close to the window where the sand got blown in. Should I be concerned about mold or other health issues from the dust getting into the system?
Posted by Nancy Young
Asked on January 18, 2026 5:53 am
0
Absolutely, the dust storm debris can indeed cause some serious health concerns. Especially given your situation where the ducts are near an entry point for sand and dirt, it’s not uncommon to see issues like mold growth or other allergens forming. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we've seen similar cases where storms bring in a lot of particulate matter that can settle inside the HVAC systems.

In my experience, when dust or sand gets into your ductwork, it acts as an excellent substrate for mold to grow, especially if there's any moisture present. The musty odor you're noticing could be from both mold and possibly other microorganisms settling in damp spots within the system. This can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, particularly in kids, and even trigger asthma attacks.

Given your concerns, it would be wise to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection of your ductwork. Our team will carefully assess whether there's any mold growth or other contamination that needs to be addressed.

Regular maintenance is key in preventing such issues, especially after extreme weather events like dust storms. Ensure the HVAC system is properly sealed and maintained to prevent future invasions from sand and debris. We recommend having a thorough cleaning at least once a year, particularly if you live in an area prone to such storms.

Remember, keeping your home's air quality clean is not just about comfort but also about health. If any concerns arise or symptoms persist despite cleaning, it’s crucial to address them promptly.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 5:07 pm